Top 10 Hybrid cars

Top 10 Hybrids on MSN Autos 

As the first mass-produced gasoline-electric hybrid, the Toyota Prius has become the best-selling hybrid vehicle in the U.S. and the world.

by the Editors of MSN Autos

The most popular hybrids on MSN Autos, based on visits to the site’s vehicle pages.

Hybrid vehicles are often a more fuel-efficient version of a popular gas-powered model. Ever since Honda spawned the U.S. hybrid generation in 1999 with the two-seat Insight, other manufacturers have joined the fray by offering an increasing number of hybrid sedans, SUVs and even trucks. But Japan-based Toyota has become the hybrid sales leader, and its dominance is evident on MSN Autos’ list of top ten hybrids.

The best-selling Toyota Prius continues its reign as the most popular hybrid, followed by the all-new 2007 Camry Hybrid in second place. Both Lexus hybrids, the RX 400h SUV and GS 450h premium sedan, make the list as well in seventh and eighth place, respectively.

Ford and Mercury represent the domestic automakers with third-place Escape Hybrid and tenth-place Mariner Hybrid. Both vehicles are updated for the 2008 model year with an all-new look.

Nissan recently introduced a hybrid version of the popular Altima sedan, yet Honda has announced they will discontinue production of the Accord Hybrid.

Eight of the ten hybrids on the most popular list are Japanese imports and Ford is the lone domestic manufacturer.

Photo Gallery: Popular Hybrids

The list of the top ten hybrid vehicles on MSN Autos is based on total visits to the site’s vehicle research pages during April through June of 2007. Here is the complete list.

1. Toyota Prius

 
The Toyota Prius has taken the country by storm since its introduction in 2000. Starting out as a small four-door sedan, the Prius has grown into a midsize hatchback. The increase in size has resulted in a roomy cabin for front and rear passengers and extra cargo space from the 60/40 split-folding rear seats. An in-dash LCD display provides a system readout, and there’s even a rear mounted backup camera for safety. The 2008 figures from the EPA for fuel economy are estimated at 48 mpg in the city and 45 on the highway.

2. Toyota Camry Hybrid

 
With a reputation for being a reliable daily driver, the Camry is the top-selling car in the country. So it was no great surprise when Toyota made a hybrid version for the 2007 model year. The Camry Hybrid looks and drives like the gas-powered version, but it is a bit more expensive. The 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine combined with the 105-kilowatt electric power system gives the hybrid a total of 187 horsepower but gets an estimated 40 mpg in the city on 38 on the highway. Prices start at just over $26,000.

Compare: Camry Hybrid vs. Altima Hybrid vs. Accord Hybrid

3. Ford Escape Hybrid

 
Both the Escape and Escape Hybrid received a major update for 2008, with looks that resemble the Ford Explorer and Expedition SUVs. Featuring a more rugged design, raised hood and a new front fascia, the small SUV also receives a number of interior updates including an improved center console that is large enough to hold a laptop computer. The 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine is carried over from the previous generation, and it achieves 34 mpg in the city and 30 on the highway for front-wheel drive, 29/27 mpg for four-wheel drive.

4. Honda Civic Hybrid

 
The hybrid version of the popular Honda Civic was redesigned for the 2006 model year. Named one of America’s "Greenest" Vehicles of 2007 by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), the Civic Hybrid emits low emissions while getting good fuel economy. The 1.3-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine is paired with a 20-horsepower electric motor; however, unlike a Prius, the car can’t be driven solely on electric power. Starting at under $23,000, the Civic Hybrid is one of Consumer Reports‘ Best Vehicles for $25,000 or Less for 2007.

5. Toyota Highlander Hybrid

 
Unveiled at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show, the industry’s first 7-passenger hybrid SUV gets an extensive update for the 2008 model year. Significantly larger and roomier and than its predecessor, the Highlander Hybrid will be riding on an all-new chassis derived from the Camry and Avalon. The Hybrid Synergy Drive system is refined for power and economy with an increased output to 270 horsepower while achieving 31/27 mpg in city and hwy. Both the Sport and Limited will have 19-inch alloy wheels as standard equipment.

6. Nissan Altima Hybrid

 
All new for the 2007 model year is a hybrid version of the popular midsize Altima sedan. They both look similar, but chances are many people haven’t seen one on the road yet because they’re only available in eight states—California, Vermont, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Maine. Nonetheless, the Altima Hybrid gets good fuel economy with 2008 figures estimated to be 35/33 mpg. A big plus for the Altima Hybrid is its driving range. Equipped with a 20-gallon fuel tank, this gas-electric hybrid can drive about 700 miles before a fill-up.

7. Lexus RX 400h

 
Lexus proved that hybrid vehicles can be posh, fast and fuel stingy with the RX 400h. The upscale interior is complemented by a soft ride, and the engine definitely has some get-up-and-go. Available in front- and all-wheel drive, the RX 400h is based on the popular RX 330 but costs considerably more; however, Lexus says the 400h has "about $6,000 worth of extra equipment." Last year the RX 400h was named one of the top SUVs in the Midsize Premium Multi-Activity Vehicle category by J.D. Power and Associates’ 2006 Initial Quality Study.

8. Lexus GS 450h

 
A hybrid version of the premium midsize GS sedan, the GS 450h is also the first rear-wheel-drive sedan with a gas-electric powertrain. Two electric motors work with the 3.5-liter 292-horsepower engine to get the GS from 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds—making it the quickest Lexus today. The steering is responsive and the brake pedal a bit sensitive, but stopping distances are short. But the fuel economy figures won’t impress like the Prius: 25/28 city/hwy mpg, and premium fuel is required.

9. Honda Accord Hybrid

 
Designed for more performance instead of exceptional fuel economy, Honda’s Accord Hybrid went a different direction than other current hybrids. Powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine, the combined horsepower is 253 with an estimated 28/35 city/hwy mpg. The fuel economy is good but considering that it costs about $6,000 more than the gasoline-powered V6 Accord that gets 20/29 mpg, the Accord Hybrid has not been a big hit. But for those who still want one, time is winding down because Honda has announced that Accord Hybrid production will be discontinued after this model year. The starting price for a new Accord Hybrid is just over $31,000.

Compare the Accord Hybrid and the V6-powered Accord

10. Mercury Mariner Hybrid

 
Sharing the same platform as the Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute, the Mariner Hybrid receives its first major redesign for the 2008 model year. Highlighted by new fascias and a larger signature waterfall grille, the compact hybrid SUV also is fitted with new seats, center console and interior accents to give it an upscale look. Available in front- or four-wheel drive, the Mariner Hybrid is a full hybrid, which means it can run up to 30 mph using only electric power. No major changes have been made to the powertrain but the software control system has been improved for a smoother transition between gasoline and electric operation.

In the market for a new car? MSN Autos is pleased to provide you with information and services designed to save you time, money and hassle. Click to research prices and specifications on any new car on the market or click to get a free price quote through MSN Autos’ New-Car Buying Service.

 

iPhone Owners said “We like it, but…”

iPhone Owners: "We Like It, But…" 

By Melissa J. Perenson

 

Our survey of 500 iPhone owners reveals that, though most are happy overall, they have lots of suggestions. The honeymoon isn’t over. A little more than a month after the Apple iPhone went on sale, nearly 90 percent of iPhone owners who answered a PC World survey said that they love their almost-new toy. But they also had a few complaints–most notably regarding the iPhone’s voice and data networks–and lots of suggestions.

What the iPhone does right

The iPhone received its highest marks for music and video playback: About 90 percent of respondents were very or extremely satisfied with the iPhone’s ability to entertain. "As an iPod, it’s really good. The simplified navigation is awesome," one reader said.

Survey participants were slightly less pleased with the iPhone’s performance as a phone, but even so 84 percent of respondents gave the device high marks on that aspect of its duties. The iPhone also earned widespread praise for its Web browsing abilities, which 83 percent of respondents found very or extremely satisfying.

In connection with its hardware and native software, the iPhone’s lowest marks for satisfaction involved the camera (46 percent were highly satisfied) and the built-in widgets (62 percent were happy as clams).

What’s not to like

The iPhone suffered its biggest negatives for the voice and data network it’s married to–the AT&T system. A whopping 40 percent of our survey respondents expressed some level of dissatisfaction with the speed of AT&T’s EDGE data network, which tops out at 200 kilobits per second and often performs at half that speed, according to Broadband Reports.

The voice quality of the iPhone on AT&T’s network seems to be cutting into satisfaction with the iPhone experience, too: Among our poll respondents, only 61 percent rated themselves as very satisfied or extremely satisfied with the voice quality of the AT&T network, and even fewer characterized themselves as satisfied with the voice network coverage.

 

In our pool of respondents, 59 people (13 percent) said that they had experienced a "significant problem" with their iPhone–not an inconsiderable number, but not surprising for a first-generation device. One-third of those who had encountered problems complained about the battery, a quarter griped about the touch screen, 24 percent reported issues involving the Safari browser, and 24 percent had difficulties with other device software. (The total exceeds 100 percent because respondents were free to report more than one problem.)

 

"The browser crashes from time to time," one respondent said. "And less frequently, video playback crashes, too."

 

About 13 percent of our respondents said that they’d run into at least one significant problem with their device in the past month. The most common culprit: the battery.

"It is a fantastic device," raves one iPhone owner. "Way beyond my old Treo 700W, which almost seems like an antique rotary phone by comparison. The iPhone is the first and only truly integrated communicator." An overwhelming majority (88 percent) of the survey’s nearly 500 respondents rated themselves as very or extremely satisfied with their new phone.

What’s missing

We asked iPhone owners what features Apple should add to the next generation of the device. Several of their suggestions echo observations that we and our colleagues at Macworld have made. Some note wryly that, so far, the iPhone can’t replace every handheld device in the house. "It can’t open my garage door, or change the TV channel, yet," one reader joked.

The iPhone’s inability to perform basic editing tasks such as copying, cutting, and pasting irked some users. Others pointed to the phone’s incapacity to handle voice dialing and its refusal to load third-party software. One iPhone owner wished for "true third-party applications (vs. Web-based applications) provided that they will not compromise stability or security."

 

Our poll respondents also took the opportunity to lambaste the phone for its lack of customization options–including custom ring tones–and for the absence of picture messaging, a to-do list, video recording, flash video support, and integrated instant messaging. One reader especially yearned for a way to change the widgets on the iPhone’s home screen: "I don’t care about Stocks or YouTube, but I do want to be able to turn Wi-Fi on or off in one click."

 

Several readers complained about the iPhone camera’s not having zoom capability and said that the camera produced poor images in low light. Even more of them griped about battery life issues and the fact that users can’t replace the battery themselves.

 

Lots of respondents called for support for a faster, 3G data network in the second-generation iPhone, along with more storage, a push e-mail capability, and wireless downloads of iTunes content. One owner asked for games designed for the phone and not dependent on an Internet connection–a valid point if you want to use your phone while traveling and don’t have an available connection, or if you just don’t want to play a game over a slow EDGE connection.

 

Many respondents wished for integrated GPS. One iPhone owner suggested that the iPhone should at least have "a basic cell tower-based GPS that integrates with Google Maps so it knows where I am when I search for services."

 

Another frequent gripe involved the phone’s lack of PDA-like functions. Respondents would like to have wider address book support, Microsoft Exchange and Lotus Notes compatibility, and better contacts options.

 

Many users said that they take heart in knowing that some of the first-generation’s iPhone’s shortcomings may be addressed via software updates (the first update went out last week).

 

"Ninety-nine percent of the things that I would like to see are software: A well-balanced set of features that do everything that a PDA or regular phone would do–only better. That is what will define and, at the same time, make or break the iPhone," said one owner.

 

 

 

 

Iced coffee and teas that will chill you out

Iced coffee and teas that will chill you out
Refreshed and Revived! 

 

Sparkling Red and Green Tea

Combine green tea, your favorite juice, and sparkling water for a refreshing take on iced tea. Nutrition Notes: Use an antioxidant-rich green tea and sweeten it with fruit juice rather than table sugar for a good source of vitamin C.

Ruby Red Winter Iced Tea

White tea is slightly sweeter than green or black tea, either of which can be substituted to make this drink.

Strawberry Iced Tea

Especially in early spring, frozen strawberries are a great alternative to fresh in this Strawberry Iced Tea. However, make sure you buy unsweetened berries.

Chai Punch

Chai is a blend of tea, milk, and spices. Chai concentrate can be found in the tea section of the grocery store.

Minted Iced Tea

Liven up your outdoor entertaining — or just refresh your family’s thirst — with this simple fruit-infused tea. Orange and lemon accompany the mint that flavors this summer iced tea.

Cranberry Ginseng Tea

A beguiling blend of flavors sets this ruby-hued beauty apart from traditional iced tea. This eclectic mix of teas and juice creates a uniquely refreshing cooler on hot days.

Iced Tea

A frosty glass of iced tea on a sultry day is one of summer’s coolest pleasures.

Peach-Mint Green Tea

Fresh herbs boost the flavor of all sorts of dishes without contributing calories or fat. In this tropical drink, fresh mint teams with peach nectar and orange juice for a refresher that’s perfect for cooling off on a sweltering summer day.

Spiced Cranberry Tea Punch

Tea’s mellow tannins add a slightly dry taste to punch, a bit like wine but without the alcohol.

Iced Green Tea

When you make this Iced Green Tea, you’ll poke plump strawberries, quartered limes, and orange peel curls onto a long bamboo skewer to create a fruit-laced swizzle stick sure to cause a stir inside your iced tea pitcher.

Apricot-Mint Tea

For a cool summer sipper, brew up a batch of this refreshingly fruity tea. To release the fresh mint flavor, crush leaves slightly with the back of a spoon.

Cranberry-Ginseng Tea

Looking for a festive nonalcoholic concoction? This party-pleasing drink can easily be doubled or tripled and served in a punch bowl.

Citrus-Raspberry Cooler

Freeze this slushy tea drink overnight before serving.

Minted Mango Tea

Add a new flavor twist to your tea by steeping it with mint and combining it with pureed mango.

Anise Coffee and Ice Cream

Iceberg-like pieces of ice cream melt quickly to mellow steaming hot coffee. For kids, use hot chocolate instead of coffee.

Iced Espresso

Serve this refreshing, low-fat Iced Espresso after brunch, lunch, or dinner in place of dessert.

Orange-Spiced Coffee

Spiked with orange liqueur, this nicely spiced brew can be served hot or cold.

Raspberry-Coffee Frappe

Coffee has never been so rich and refreshing! Whirled in a blender, this ice cream drink gets its fruity taste from raspberry-flavor syrup.

Mocha Smoothies

In a blender combine low-fat milk, a banana, sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, coffee crystals, and vanilla, then add ice cubes and process until smooth.

Iced Mocha

Chocolate-flavored drink mix replaces high-carb sugar syrup in this homestyle version of a coffee shop treat, Iced Mocha.

 

Your 5-minute guide to protecting your identity

Your 5-minute guide to protecting your identity

Here are 16 steps to protect yourself and six ways to clean up things if you are a victim of identity theft. 

By MSN Money staff

 

Thieves may sell your information on the black market or use it to obtain money, credit or even expensive medical procedures. Unless you’re vigilant in protecting your records, you’ll have to work even harder to repair the damage to your credit. The average victim spends 30 to 40 hours rectifying the problem.

Some of the e-threats to your identity are:

• Phishing. You get an e-mail that appears to be from your bank or an online service, most often PayPal or eBay, instructing you to click on a link and provide information to verify your account.

• Pharming or spoofing. Hackers redirect a legitimate Web site’s traffic to an impostor site, where you’ll be asked to provide confidential information.

• Smishing. This is phishing done with text messaging on your smart phone. It instructs you to visit a bogus Web site.

• Spyware. You’ve unknowingly downloaded illicit software when you’ve opened an attachment, clicked on a pop-up or downloaded a song or a game. Criminals can use spyware to record your keystrokes and obtain credit card numbers, bank-account information and passwords when you make purchases or conduct other business online. They also can access confidential information on your hard drive.

 

You don’t need to have a computer to become a victim. (See "How safe is your financial information?")

• Vishing — voice phishing. You get an automated phone message asking you to call your bank or credit card company. Even your caller ID is fooled. You call the number and are asked to punch in your account number, PIN or other personal information (See "Your phone may be under attack.")

• ATM skimming. Crooks use a combination of a fake ATM slot and cameras to record your account information and PIN when you use a cash machine.

• Crooks will steal your wallet, or go through your mail or trash.

More than half of identity theft cases involve credit card fraud. Checking accounts are the second most popular target. (See "Keep thieves out of your bank account.") But some crooks have other plans:

• At least 250,000 people have been the victim of medical identity theft in the last several years. (See "Diagnosis: Identity theft.") Crooks use fraudulently obtained personal information to get expensive medical procedures or dupe insurance companies into paying for procedures that were not done.

• The victims of about 5% of reported identity theft cases are children. The fraud often goes undetected for years — until the young adult applies for credit. (See "Stolen innocence: Child identity theft.")

16 tips to protect yourself

You can take steps to protect yourself from identity fraud:

• Keep your confidential information private. Your bank or credit card company won’t call or e-mail to ask for your account information. They already have it.

• Keep an inventory of everything in your wallet and your PDA, including account numbers. Don’t keep your Social Security card in your wallet.

• Stop getting banking and credit card information in the mail. (See "Go paperless for safer banking.")

• Monitor your bank and credit card transactions for unauthorized use. Crooks with your account numbers usually start small to see if you’ll notice.

• If you conduct business online, use your own computer. A public computer is less secure, as is wireless Internet.

• Look for suspicious devices and don’t let anyone stand nearby when you use an ATM. Take your card and receipt with you. Keep your PIN in your head, not your wallet.

• Don’t store credit card numbers and other financial information on your cell phone. (See "Is your cell phone spilling your secrets?")

Protect your computer from vulnerability:

• Install anti-virus, anti-spyware and firewall protection, and keep them up to date.

• Don’t open e-mails from strangers. Malware can be hidden in embedded attachments and graphics files.

• Don’t open attachments unless you know who sent them and what they contain. Never open executable attachments. Configure Windows so that the file extensions of known file types are not hidden.

• Don’t click on pop-ups. Configure Windows or your Web browser to block them.

• Don’t provide your credit card number online unless you are making a purchase from a Web site you trust. Reputable sites will always direct you to a secure page with an URL starting with https:// whenever you actually make purchases or are asked to provide confidential information.

• Use strong passwords: at least six characters, including at least one symbol and number, and no reference to your name or other personal information. Use a different password for every site that requires one, and change passwords regularly.

• Never send a user name, password or other confidential information via e-mail.

• Consider turning off your computer when you’re not using it or at least putting it in standby mode.

• Don’t keep passwords, tax returns and other financial information on your hard drive.

6 steps to clean up the mess

If you suspect your identity may be compromised, place a fraud alert with the three credit bureaus. When you place an alert, you are entitled to a free copy of your credit report. After that, take advantage of the free annual reports the bureaus are required to give all consumers. Stagger your requests so that you get a report every four months.

• If you’ve been phished, contact the bank or company named in the fraudulent e-mail. You also may want to notify the Internet Crime Complaint Center and forward the e-mail to spam@uce.gov.

If you are the victim of identity theft, take the following steps:

• Make an identity-theft report to the police and get a copy. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

• Close accounts that have been tampered with. Contact each company by phone and again by certified letter. Make sure the company notifies you in writing that the disputed charges have been erased. Document each conversation and keep all records.

• Place a seven-year fraud alert or, if you live in a state that allows it, a "freeze" on your credit reports. (See "Lock your credit away from ID thieves.")

• Begin the process of having the fraudulent information removed from your credit reports. (See "Don’t let credit-report errors fester.")

• Find victim support at the Identity Theft Resource Center.

 

 

Is your waiter a thief?

Is your waiter a thief?

Crooks with portable bank-card readers are getting away with $60 million a year. Your credit or debit card could be ‘skimmed’ at a store, a restaurant, even an ATM.

By U.S. News & World Report

Brad Lipman’s dinner out with his family turned out to be much more expensive than he expected, at least temporarily.

When he paid for the meal last summer with his debit card, someone in the restaurant — he still doesn’t know who — swiped it through a portable card reader, which copied the account information. Within a few weeks, thousands of dollars had been stolen from his bank account.

Lipman, who lives in Thousand Oaks, Calif., is one of thousands of people affected by "skimming," criminals stealing credit card information when cards are used at ATMs, restaurants or other retail locations. Skimmers siphon about $60 million a year from bank accounts, according to the Electronic Funds Transfer Association.

"We’re seeing more of it," says Todd Davis, the chief executive of the security company LifeLock in Tempe, Ariz. One common technique, he says, is placing a skimming device over the card slot of an ATM. The skimmer looks like a piece of plastic to guide cards into the slot, but it picks up bank information as the card slides through.

More ATM use means more incidents

People can purchase skimming machines, which are also called portable magnetic credit card readers, through online sites such as eBay for around $200. The devices, which are about the size of a small stapler and contain a slot for card swiping, electronically read cards’ magnetic strips and store the data. The data are then transferred to a computer and used to make copycat cards, which can make purchases.

The devices are also used for legal purposes, such as registering conference attendees or making sales at small retail stores. An eBay spokeswoman said that the company allows the sale of the devices because they are legal, but that sellers are prohibited from marketing the devices for fraudulent use under the company’s policy against encouraging illegal activity.

Kurt Helwig, the president of the Electronic Funds Transfer Association, which promotes electronic commerce, says that though the number of skimming incidents as a percentage of overall ATM use hasn’t grown, the increase in ATM use overall means that skimming is happening more often. Although it’s still a rare occurrence and there’s no need to avoid ATMs, he says, consumers should be wary.

"If you see something that looks funny or doesn’t look right, with wires hanging out or a stupid sign (directing consumers to a different card slot), don’t use that ATM, and let someone know," Helwig says.

Banks must reimburse

Many banks have added security measures, such as monitoring ATMs with physical inspections as well as electronically during off hours, when skimming is most likely to occur. Margie Green, a spokeswoman for Wachovia, says the bank’s ATMs are under watch 24 hours a day. Like most banks, Wachovia reimburses customers for any losses they incur from a skimming scam. By law, banks must reimburse customers for all but $50 of their losses, as long as they report the problem in a timely fashion.

Still, falling victim to skimming is not pleasant. Even though his money was refunded, "I felt absolutely as violated as can be," says Lipman, who has since started a company, TablePay Solutions, to help prevent skimming. The company distributes a machine to retailers that allows customers to swipe their own card, never allowing it out of their sight.

This article was reported and written by Kimberly Palmer for U.S. News & World Report.

 

 

Ice cream giants locked in cold war

Ice cream giants locked in cold war

Forget local brands: Two multinational companies are battling for the $59 billion global market in frozen desserts.

By BusinessWeek

Witness the lines of tourists snaking their way toward the famous Berthillon ice cream counter on the Île Saint-Louis in Paris, and you know that in the dog days of summer, nothing beats the heat better than a refreshing scoop of ice cream.

From rich, superpremium flavors such as Ben & Jerry’s Chunky Monkey to reduced-fat offerings from Dreyer’s to Berthillon’s to-die-for pear sorbet, sellers have blanketed the market with confections to suit every taste and budget.

What many consumers may not realize, though, is just how big a business ice cream has become around the world.

The days of mom-and-pop parlors and local brands are fading fast. Today, the $59 billion ice cream industry is dominated by two global giants: Switzerland’s Nestlé (NSRGY, news, msgs) and Anglo-Dutch conglomerate Unilever (UN, news, msgs). Together, they control more than one-third of the worldwide market — and half of ice cream sales in the United States — and they’re looking to expand as they move into developing regions in Asia and Latin America.

• MSN Health & Fitness: Should you ditch dairy?

It’s a high-stakes battle in a growing and profitable business. Researcher Euromonitor figures that global ice cream sales are rising 2.5% annually and will hit $65 billion in 2010.

Western Europe, the world’s largest market, gobbled up $21.5 billion worth of ice cream and other frozen desserts last year, while North Americans devoured $16.3 billion worth. The most promising markets for growth are in emerging economies such as China and Brazil, where annual sales are soaring 8.5% and 8%, respectively.

Neither Nestlé nor Unilever had nearly so much presence in ice cream two decades ago. But starting in the 1990s, both began aggressive acquisition campaigns. Nestlé snapped up Hagen-Dazs, Dreyer’s and Swiss brand Mvenpick. Unilever bought Breyers Ice Cream and Ben & Jerry’s. Today, Nestlé boasts a 17.5% share of the world market, while Unilever is close behind with 16%.

The rest of the market is highly fragmented: The No. 3 maker in the United States, Wells’ Dairy, has just 5% share. Other brands of note around the world are Baskin-Robbins (a unit of Dunkin’ Brands) and Japan’s Lotte, which remains No. 1 at home. China’s top maker, Inner Mongolian Yili Industrial Group, has a 17% domestic market share and will be the sole dairy sponsor for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics.

Moving upmarket

The decision to target ice cream has paid off handsomely for both Nestlé and Unilever.

The Swiss company got nearly 20% of its $42 billion in first-half 2007 revenues from its milk products and ice cream division. With pretax margins of 10.5%, the unit kicked in nearly $900 million in profits, up more than in any other part of the company. Unilever’s ice cream and beverages division supplied just over 20% of its $26.7 billion in first-half revenues. Analyst Ian Kellett with brokerage Numis Securities figures ice cream alone accounted for 10% of Unilever’s $3 billion of first-half profits.

To stoke growth, both companies have relied on getting consumers to pay more for frozen treats. With their tit-for-tat acquisitions of American icons Hagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry’s — now distributed around the world — the food giants have helped lead a consumer trend away from down-market, mass-produced brands to more profitable superpremium products.

"By focusing on superpremium brands, both companies have increased the value of their products," says Euromonitor packaged food analyst Francisco Redruello.

Better-for-you ice creams

Rising economies around the world should further the trend, as people have more money in their pockets to spend on goods such as upmarket ice cream.

"The focus on quality, indulgence brands has been integral to our growth," says Jean-Marie Gurne, head of Nestlé’s ice cream strategic business unit. Gurne predicts Nestlé’s worldwide ice cream sales should increase by 3% next year.

At the same time, both Nestlé and Unilever have been alert to growing health consciousness, particularly in Western Europe and North America. The industry has responded by rolling out lower-fat, lower-calorie products.

Nestlé’s $2.5 billion takeover of Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream in 2002 helped it secure the lion’s share of this increasingly important market in North America. Dreyer’s low-fat "Slow Churned" line, with 50% less fat and 30% fewer calories, has proved a runaway success, even forcing Unilever to roll out similar products under its Ben & Jerry’s marque.

"Better-for-you ice creams have been a real boost," says Carl Short, an analyst with Standard & Poor’s. "Nestlé and Unilever are both focusing on this growth market in an attempt to attract new customers."

While such healthier options have helped boost sales in developed markets, the biggest growth prospects lie in Asia, where the ice cream business is set to increase by double digits over the next five years. Total revenue from the Asia Pacific region reached $11.6 billion last year, with $3.7 billion in China alone.

For now, market penetration remains low, although both Unilever and Nestlé are gearing up in countries such as the Philippines and Indonesia in hopes of attracting increasingly affluent consumers. Because many homes in developing countries don’t have freezers, the companies are focused on selling single-serving portions through street vendors. That should help expand their markets in countries where refrigeration remains an out-of-reach luxury.

Locals squeezed from the market

As of now, Nestlé and Unilever appear evenly matched, though analysts say Nestlé has shown a greater willingness to innovate in local markets than its Anglo-Dutch rival.

Either way, the increasing globalization of the ice cream industry makes it hard for local makers to take on the big boys. With their massive distribution networks and rich marketing budgets, Nestlé and Unilever have an edge. And both have said they may make more acquisitions, particularly in Asia, in the future.

No question, the days of the local ice cream shop have passed. But as long as the European food giants provide a tasty treat to help people cool off in the summer heat, no one seems to mind.

This article was reported and written by Mark Scott for BusinessWeek.

 

Looking for a cottage for vacation in BC?

Looking for a cottage for vacation in British Columbia? 

Vacation in style in the Okanagan at LaCasa Lakeside Cottage Resort for under CAD200 per night, just a stone throw from Vancouver!

 

 
 

 

A breathtaking sunrise peeks out from behind the shores of Lake Okanagan, a cool lake breeze caresses your face and a feeling of anticipation washes over you as a day at LaCasa Lakeside Cottage Resort beckons.

LaCasa offers activities for the whole family. Children and teens will love the outdoor swimming pool, mini golf, beach volleyball, and tennis courts. LaCasa is perfect for nature lovers! Don’t miss out on our picturesque hiking trails just steps from your cottage. Make your family vacation even more memorable by visiting some of the attractions in the nearby cities of Kelowna and Vernon. Festivals and events are happening from May through October, ensuring you will always have lots of things to see and do!

Why not stay with us while you enjoy your golf vacation? LaCasa offers proximity to some of British Columbia’s World Class Golf Courses; Gallagher’s Canyon Golf and Country Club, and Predator Ridge Golf Resort are just a couple.

For those who enjoy wine, local British Columbia wineries offer fantastic wine tours and wine tastings. There are over fourteen wineries within a one hour drive of LaCasa Resort including Summerhill Pyramid Winery, and Gray Monk Cellars. Kelowna hosts a Spring and Fall Wine Festival accompanied by great food and unique events.

When the snow falls LaCasa magically transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland. We are located within a 1.5 hr drive of Big White Ski Resort, and Silver Star Mountain Resort. Why not ski all day then come home to your cozy cottage to curl up by the fireplace and enjoy the inspiring lake views?

LaCasa … a place where vacationing is easy and family memories are priceless.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

For reservations, click HERE!

 

 

 

Smashing Versace spring/summer 2007 Collections!

Gianni Versace’s shooting 10 years ago put fashion on his sister’s final ultimum show that critics all applaused!
Presenting Milan’s Versace Spring/Summer 2007 Collection!

The chain holding the gown at the top reminds me of metallic mesh and buttons from Gianni Versace’s glamourous designs. Sweet dress.

She’s not really that cold if she can wear such short skirts and not boots 🙂

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

  

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM

 

This swimsuit will make your breasts bigger and curvy figure at the hips – illusion from the semi-swirling pattern.

The focus is all on the chest!

Only if you have long legs because the horizontal strap cuts across your leg – it would make you look shorter.

I like the collar string, better than normal halter

Sequins/mirrors inside? Must be itchy.

The makeup. 

Gianni Versace, the great fashion designer!

 

 

Baby Suri Cruise is so CUTE!

Anyone not for Suri Cruise? She is SO cute…! 

 

With a cherubic face and a shock of dark hair, Suri Cruise subject of the world’s most anticipated baby photo made her debut Wednesday,September 6, 2006 on the cover of Vanity Fair.

 

The magazine’s 22-page spread of 4 1/2-month-old Suri and her famous parents, Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, includes photos taken by Annie Leibovitz for the October issue, on newsstands in New York and Los Angeles and nationwide on Sept. 12.

The cover photo shows Suri peeking out of a jacket worn by Cruise with Holmes looking on. Katie Couric, in her first night as anchor of the "CBS Evening News," revealed the photo Tuesday.

Born April 18, Suri had not previously appeared in any published photos, prompting some public speculation about her very existence.

"She has Kate’s lips and eyes," the 44-year-old Cruise is quoted as telling the magazine. Counters Holmes: "I think she has Tom’s eyes. I think she looks like Tom."

Leading up to the frenzy over the photos, "We were just living our lives, being a family," Cruise says. "Actually, we were taking our own photos and always planned to release those at the right time."

But "then all the craziness began," Holmes, 27, says. "This `where is Suri?’ controversy. Tom and I looked at each other and said, `What’s going on?’ We weren’t trying to hide anything."

Holmes also explains their purchase of a sonogram machine, saying she and Cruise were followed by paparazzi and as a result, her doctor had to make house calls.

"The sonogram was for his use!" she says.

Holmes says of her daughter: "She’s a glorious girl. She’s the miracle of our life." Suri Cruise is born on April 18, 2006.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Online Dating Frauds!

Seduced into scams: Online lovers often duped

Dating sites, singles chat rooms latest target of Nigerian scams

By Bob Sullivan

 

 
 

Watch VIDEO to be forewarned!

Richie’s picture showed a jolly, bearded man curled up on a couch with a cat rubbing his face. "Loving, caring and hardworking," the online dating profile said.

When Theresa Smalley received a note from Richie last January asking if she wanted to chat, she was flattered. He seemed cute. The two began exchanging e-mails, friendly at first, but quickly swelling in intensity and passion. By Valentine’s Day, Smalley received a box of chocolate candy, a teddy bear, and a helium balloon that said "I love you." Smalley, 46, was hooked, even though she had never met him.

Richie said he was from Milford, Mass., but that he was out of the country on a big construction job. He was helping build a stadium in Nigeria, he said. As soon as he returned, he promised, he’d come visit Smalley in Ohio. He couldn’t wait, and neither could she.

The spirited e-mail romance hummed along for another two months before there was a problem. Richie said his boss paid him in postal money orders, and he was having trouble cashing them. Could Theresa do a small favor for him? Could she cash the money order for him, then wire the money to him in Nigeria? Smalley agreed, and over the next two weeks, she cashed two $900 money orders and sent along the funds. Then, Richie was ready to leave the country, but needed money to deal with a visa problem. She cashed another money order.

Then, Smalley’s bank called her. Something was wrong.

"I had to call a special number at the bank. Even up until that point I still believed him. I had no qualms whatsoever cashing (the money orders)," Smalley said. Even after the bank told her the money orders had been altered — they were purchased for $20, but then "washed" and doctored to read $900 — she still held out hope.  But a friend pointed her to an Internet site devoted to Nigerian scams, and suddenly, Smalley’s world crashed down around her.

‘My whole world had fallen apart’
"The bank told me I was responsible for that money. I had to pay them $2,700, which was everything I had," she said. "I was devastated. I felt like my whole world had fallen apart.

Smalley shared her version of events with MSNBC.com in the hopes that others might not fall for the same trickery.

"Never in my wildest dreams would I have ever known that this is all a part of an elaborate online scam. He spent four months gaining my trust and he did it."

So-called Nigerian scams, where victims are ultimately tricked into sending money to the African country using some irreversible method like a wire transfer, are common. The Secret Service and other U.S. agencies have issued warnings on the scams, also known as "419" or "advance-fee" frauds. But the seductive flavor of this type of the scam — known to some as "sweetheart scams" — and the incredible patience shown by the scammer reveal just how far con artists will go to trick their marks. 

Ryan W. of Washington state, who asked that his last name be withheld, says he sent $15,200 to a similarly seductive scammer. And he wasn’t even using an online dating service. Ryan was approached while hanging out in a chat room devoted to Grateful Dead fans. His seducer also claimed to be an American out of the country getting paid via money order, and also ultimately asked him to cash them. Five weeks later, when the bank came calling, all $11,000 in Ryan’s bank account — most of it from a student loan earmarked for next semester’s tuition — was frozen by his bank.

"Typically people go on the Net to get dates. I was just on there trading music," he said. "The thing that duped me was the whole music issue. She seemed to be into the music I was into."

Flowers bought with stolen credit cards
Nigerian-based con artists seem to have seized on sweetheart scams of late, said Dale Miskell, supervisory special agent in charge of an FBI cybercrime squad in Birmingham, Ala. Scam artists post ads to online dating sites and lurk in chat rooms with names like "40 and single," or "Recently dumped." Often, they reach out to a lonely soul with flowers or candy, purchased with a stolen credit card.

"A little gift of flowers or candy is a good aphrodisiac," said Miskell. "The next thing you know, they are in love. I can’t tell you the number of women who have fallen for this."

Eventually, the con artists convince their soulmates to do them a big favor — help transfer funds out of the bank.

There have been so many victims that they are starting to find each other online. A new Yahoo group, "RomanceScams," was founded last month by Smalley and Barb Sluppick, who said she almost fell for a similar scam earlier this year. Among the hundreds of messages posted to the group are photographs of alleged scammers, links to potentially fraudulent online dating ads, and copies of come-on e-mails. The group is trying to publicize the problem to limit the damage.

"How many people are out there thinking they found the love of their life and they have no clue what’s happening?" Sluppick said. "The first thing most people say to me when they contact me is, ‘I can’t believe I was so stupid.’ "

Sweetheart scams appear to be on the rise, said Julie Ferguson, executive director of the Merchant Risk Council, which tracks scams for online retailers.

"I am definitely getting more calls on this. I used to get one every three months. Now, I get one every couple of weeks or so because it’s the easiest way to get somebody hooked," Ferguson said. "The stories are so-gut-wrenching sad."

Some scammers seem to deliberately target groups set up for Christian singles, she said, where people may be less likely to be suspicious. "When you are meeting someone else on a Christian site, you think you are safe."

No dating site is immune from scams, said Jason Tarlowe, who operates MatchDoctor.com, where Smalley met Richie. "This hurts our business. We don’t want this," Tarlowe said. "We’re trying to do everything possible … We don’t want people to be taken in."

But they are, said Donna Gregory, supervisory internet crime specialist at the FBI’s Internet Fraud Complaint Center. She said the con artists are relentless.

"We’ve even seen them take as long as a year (to seduce a mark)," Gregory said. Con artists will hunt for people’s weaknesses, find out what they care about — such as Grateful Dead music — and then go in for the kill.

Sometimes, the online suitors don’t even ask before sending money orders. They just send them, then guilt their targets into forwarding on the cash, Gregory said. In other cases, the con artists aren’t after money — they are after shipping help. They ask their correspondents to "re-ship" items to locations in Nigeria. The goods are often purchased with stolen credit cards, but the con artists have trouble getting them delivered out of the country, because many U.S. merchants are now wary of shipping to Nigeria. So the criminals need a middle-man.

"They say, ‘Oh, once you have them, why not just send them? People say, ‘I’ve got these packages and I don’t know why,’" Gregory said.

Sluppick said one confused victim in her Yahoo support group currently has about $50,000 in merchandise that’s been sent to her home, and she doesn’t know what to do with it. 

The Merchant Risk Council’s Ferguson said victims can always contact her agency for help returning merchandise to the retailers.

‘Keep your money to yourself’
But there is no returning money to consumers who have wired funds overseas, hoping to cement a love bond. Smalley said other would-be victims need to know about the perils of online matchmaking, and they need to listen to the little voices of hesitation and concern inside that she failed to heed.

"So much came back to me after all of this was done," she said.  "I sat there thinking about everything. But these guys are professionals. They have the time. They have the patience."

Rhoda Cook has for years operated a Web site named straightshooter.net which maintains a database of sweetheart con artists. She’s seen many varieties of romance scams, online and off. There’s nothing new about charming men and women swindling would-be lovers, she said.

"When they invented the car, the con artist could drive to the next county. Now they can get on the Internet and go across the world," Cook said.  "When you meet someone and you really want someone you just want to believe them."

Her advice to daters is the same, online or off:

"Enjoy the relationship, but keep your money to yourself," she said. "That way, if it goes wrong, all you’re going to lose is your heart."

Tips that you should follow when dating online:
1. If the profile photo is too good to be true, they are likely frauds (never give out your phone number, address, and of course credit card info.)
2. If they do not show any webcam when asked, they could be frauds
3. If their spelling errors are questionable, they could be frauds
4. If they called in and speak with a UK accent than an American accent when they said they are from the States, they are likely frauds
5. If their US phone numbers are of a different area code than the city (they usually use big, known cities) they said they are from, watch out!
6. If they cooked up some stories to ask you to wire money via Western Union especially to Nigeria (address like 10 Toyin Street, Ikeja Lagos State, Nigeria) WATCH OUT!!!
7. Use common sense, do a google search on all info. given before you let your heart out!

Fraud Resources:

Report these scams right away to anti-online dating frauds like:
1.  http://www.datingnmore.com/fraud/scam_addresses.htm
2.  http://www.fraud.org/
3. http://www.efccnigeria.org/
4. http://www.secretservice.gov/
5. http://www.state.gov/www/regions/africa/naffpub.pdf
6. http://home.rica.net/alphae/419coal/
7. http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-04-1738A1.doc

Tips to protect your identity, dos and don’ts: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17818062/